What is Aikido?
AIKIDO is a Japanese martial art developed by Morihei Ueshiba as a synthesis of his martial studies, philosophy and religious beliefs. Aikido is often translated as "the way of unifying (with) life energy". Ueshiba's goal was to create an art that practitioners could use to defend themselves, while also protecting their attacker from injury.
Aikido techniques consist of entering and turning movements that redirect the momentum of an opponent's attack and a throw or joint lock that terminates the technique.
In practice it is a body to body combat discipline, which looks to maximise efficiency with a minimum of effort.
The secret of this art is understanding your opponent's weaknesses, their centre of gravity and their behaviour. Understanding what leads to a conflict and how an opponent channels violence is essential to understanding how to avoid combat. If all else fails, Aikido can confuse an opponent, leading to disorientation and failure to apply violence. It is the rage shown by an opponent that allows for an easier imobilisation.
Aikido at Sporting
Sporting has hosted Aikido since 1994, with everybody interested having the opportunity to study its art, philosophy and self-defence application.